The Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) is a medium-sized bird native to North America. It is known for its striking blue coloration, crest of feathers on its head and black markings around its eyes. Blue Jays are intelligent and social birds that are often recognized by their loud, distinctive calls. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods such as acorns, nuts, seeds, insects, and sometimes small animals. Blue Jays are also known for their habit of hoarding food, which they store in the ground or in trees to eat later. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, parks, and suburban areas, and are known to adapt well to human presence.
Blue Jays are monogamous and breed once a year, building nests out of twigs and other materials in the branches of trees. They lay 2-7 eggs, which hatch after about 17-18 days of incubation. Blue Jays are territorial birds and will defend their nests vigorously against predators and other Blue Jays. The Blue Jay is a common bird in North America and is often seen in backyards and parks. Its striking blue coloration and distinctive calls make it a popular bird for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.